Trainer unconcerned by 12-furlong test at ParisLongchamp.
Legendary trainer Andre Fabre has expressed immense confidence in his star mare, Mqse De Sevigne, ahead of next month’s Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at ParisLongchamp. As Fabre eyes a record-extending ninth win in Europe’s richest race, he believes the extended distance will only enhance the five-time Group One winner’s chances, despite skepticism from others in the racing world.
The Arc, set to take place in early October, will be Mqse De Sevigne’s first attempt at the demanding mile-and-a-half distance. However, Fabre is adamant that the extra furlongs will be a benefit rather than a hindrance for the talented mare.
“I fancy the mare. So many people seem to think the Arc may be a bit far for her, but I have exactly the opposite opinion,” Fabre confidently declared. “I actually think an extra two furlongs will help her. She loves soft ground, and her ability is not in question. She will adapt to the course and distance very well. She's in very good shape.”
Unbeaten Season Sparks Confidence
Mqse De Sevigne has enjoyed an undefeated season so far, showcasing her class and consistency at the highest level. Her victories in the Prix Rothschild and Prix Jean Romanet have cemented her status as one of the leading contenders for the Arc. However, stepping up to 12 furlongs will undoubtedly be her biggest challenge yet.
Favourite beaten!
Sosie gets the better of Delius and Look De Vega to land the Prix Niel at @paris_longchamp under @maximeguyon_off… pic.twitter.com/4xqO8dNDgc
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 15, 2024
Fabre’s confidence stems not only from the mare’s impeccable form but also from his vast experience with Arc winners. As a trainer with an unmatched eight Arc victories, his instincts are honed by decades of success. “She’s very well-suited to the conditions, especially if the ground turns soft. We’ve worked her over longer distances, and she’s handled it with ease.”
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, known for its grueling test of stamina and speed, will pit Mqse De Sevigne against the best thoroughbreds in Europe. But for Fabre, the mare’s affinity for soft ground is a significant advantage, especially given the unpredictable autumn weather in Paris.
Stablemate Sosie Also in the Mix
While Mqse De Sevigne is undoubtedly a leading contender, Fabre’s stable is also represented by the exciting colt Sosie. Fresh off a commanding win in the Prix Niel, where he dispatched Prix du Jockey Club winner Look De Vega with ease, Sosie has emerged as another key player in the Arc betting.
Fabre is not short of praise for the colt. “Sosie is a nice horse as well, and he is coming forward at the right moment. If it goes to very heavy ground, that won’t help him, but soft ground will be fine,” he explained.
In fact, Fabre has drawn parallels between Sosie and some of his previous Arc winners. “He’s like a few horses I’ve had who have won the Arc, in that he is coming good at the right moment. I wouldn’t like to say one in front of the other, but I think both have a good chance of being in the first four.”
For racing enthusiasts, the potential Fabre one-two finish in the Arc only adds to the drama. Sosie’s tactical speed and stamina make him a formidable opponent, and the colt’s improvement throughout the season has seen him leapfrog many established contenders in the betting markets.
A Legacy of Arc Greatness
Fabre’s record-breaking eight Arc victories already place him in a league of his own, and a ninth win would further solidify his legendary status in the sport. His belief in Mqse De Sevigne, in particular, reflects the remarkable talent that has defined his career.
“Both horses are doing well, they just worked this morning, and I was very pleased with them,” Fabre said, revealing his quiet optimism ahead of the prestigious race.
Mqse De Sevigne, however, has never raced over a mile and a half. Critics and pundits have questioned whether the step-up in trip will expose her, but Fabre remains unperturbed. For the trainer, the challenge lies not just in the distance but in the opposition she will face, including her own stablemate Sosie.
Looking Ahead to Arc Day
As the build-up to Arc day intensifies, Fabre’s calm confidence is matched by his proven track record in the race. With two top contenders in Mqse De Sevigne and Sosie, his stable looks primed for success.
For Mqse De Sevigne, the Arc represents the ultimate test – not only to prove her stamina over the extended trip but also to add her name to the illustrious roll of honor in Europe’s greatest race. If she can deliver under the legendary hands of Fabre, it would mark a remarkable capstone to a perfect season.
As for Sosie, the colt’s meteoric rise through the ranks has already turned heads, and a strong Arc showing could further elevate him into the upper echelon of thoroughbreds.
With both horses in peak form and the race just weeks away, Fabre’s Arc dreams are alive and well. Can he land a record-breaking ninth victory? All will be revealed in Paris.
